By Barbara Salter
One of the most beautiful holiday traditions in Flagler County is the annual Holiday in the Gardens Celebration at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park in Palm Coast. This gorgeous park is truly one of Flagler County’s gems any time of the year. Decked out in its holiday trimmings, it is magnificent!
As its name implies, the park features 20 acres of beautiful formal gardens nestled under majestic oaks—a kaleidoscope of native and exotic plant species are showcased artistically along picturesque, paved paths. But that’s just the beginning. The property consists of 425 acres extending from the Matanzas River/Intracoastal Waterway to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an abundant example of multiple Florida habitats all in one spot.
On the Atlantic Side, there’s a beautiful beach boasting unique coquina rock formations. The beach is a popular place for sunbathers during the warmer months. It’s also a great fishing spot. When I visited, however, the action was across the street in the park itself. The Friends of Washington Oaks, one of the most dedicated volunteer groups in Flagler County, turned the rambling park into an Old Florida-style Winter Wonderland!
No matter what time of the year you visit Flagler County, Washington Oaks Garden State Park is a must-see. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Great Florida Birding Trail. The visitor’s center has a wealth of information about the park’s natural and cultural resources. There’s also a gift shop where you can pick up some unique Florida gifts and souvenirs, homemade goodies, as well as plants and fruit.
You can spend an hour touring the gardens or you can spend all day fishing, hiking, canoeing, just sitting back and watching the birds. An average of 40 – 50 different species visit the park every month, depending on the season. You never know what you might spot. It’s also the perfect place for an old-fashioned picnic.
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is one of the absolute best ways to experience Flagler’s outdoor life at its most natural and very best.
Photos by Barbara Salter